When travelling, do you like to visit famous tourist attractions or do you prefer to get off the beaten track? For many people, it’s a bit of both. Here are 5 of the best European hidden gems to inspire your wanderlust.
Best European Hidden Gems
Have you ever dreamed of experiencing a European escape filled with culture, history and adventure? Europe is an incredible region full of hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered.
From the awe-inspiring city of Rome, with its iconic sights and culinary delights; to Paris, where historic monuments sit alongside cultural art galleries; from Hamburg’s unique fusion of classic and modern in its stunning architecture; to London’s timeless beauty – there is something for everyone across Europe!
And let us not forget Seville – the vibrant Spanish city whose cobbled streets hide delightful eateries, superb museums and more! Read on to discover our pick of the best hidden gems in these cities!
London Hidden Gems
Did you know that there’s a secret garden in Regent’s Park? Tucked away behind an unmarked entrance, The Garden of St John’s Lodge, in Regent Park’s Inner Circle, is a relaxing spot with some beautiful statues.
You’d never find J&A Café by chance – it’s hidden inside an unremarkable narrow alleyway in Clerkenwell. Walk through to the sunny courtyard, however and you’ll find this former jewellery workshops.
They specialize in Irish cooking and their chocolate Guiness cake is to die for.
Originally a church, the Grade II listed Tabernacle in Notting Hill is one of our favourite hidden gems in London. It has an attractive courtyard café that is open to anyone, whether you’ve come here for a theatrical or musical performance or simply want a break from the hustle and bustle of Portobello Market.
Hamburg Hidden Gems
The city of Hamburg itself is something of a hidden gem, less well-known than Berlin or Munich. However, it’s an elegant town with much to enjoy, including one of the top ballet companies in the world and many outdoor pursuits such as sailing.
If you have a weekend in Hamburg, try to visit Blankenese. This beautiful suburb on the banks of the river Elbe is full of picturesque cottages bedecked with flowers.
Many of the streets can only be reached on foot, giving a real sense of calm, and there’s a fantastic panoramic view towards the river from the top of Süllberg.
One of the best places to eat in Hamburg is 2 Michelin starred Jacobs Restaurant in five star Hotel Louis C. Jacob. However, if you haven’t secured a reservation or if you’re on more of a budget, then their sister restaurant, Weinwirtschaft Kleines Jacob, is a brilliant find.
Their wine list is extensive and their desserts really stand out. We love their marinated forest berries with foamed quark cheese.
Where better to enjoy a beer in Hamburg than at the Craft Beer Store, with its huge choice of 250 rare and unusual beers. There’s a quiet courtyard where you can sample the beers at the rear.
You can find it on the appropriately named Lager Street aka Lagerstrasse!
Paris Hidden Gems
There are so many hidden gems in Paris that it’s hard to pick just a few. The Passages are a series of attractive 18th and 19th century covered arcades.
Galerie Vivienne is one of our favorites, with a pretty mosaic floor and unique shops such as Jean Paul Gaultier. Head to Le Pas Sage restaurant (it’s a play on words, meaning the Naughty Boy) in Passage du Grand Cerf for tasty bites in a casual atmosphere.
You can’t come to Paris without savouring a patisserie. Amongst the very finest are those from Stohrer, the oldest patisserie in the city. Located on rue Montorgueil. popular with Parisians for its outdoor cafés, it specializes in puits d’amour cakes, beloved of Queen Elizabeth II.
In fact she made a surprise visit here in 2004, asking for these in perfect French. Stohrer also invented the famous baba au rhum cakes, so do try those too.
If it feels like you’re visiting someone’s private house at Musée Jacquemart-André, that’s because it was the home of Nélie Jacquemart and Edouard André, two important art collectors. The Second Empire 19th century building is stunning and the 15th and 16th century Italian sculptures are very impressive.
Rome Hidden Gems
There are some fascinating hidden gems in Rome. Once you’ve seen famous attractions like the Colosseum and the Vatican, make time for some of the lesser known sights.
In the courtyard of Palazzo Spada, a clever optical illusion will make you feel like your eyes are deceiving you. Borromini’s Perspective was designed by Francesco Borromini.
It features a rising floor, gradually converging columns and a descending ceiling. All of this gives the impression that the gallery is a lot longer than it really is.
Even the clipped hedges at the end are an illusion, they’re actually made of stone!
Who would have imagined that there’s a large pyramid in central Rome. The Pyramid of Cestius was most likely built around 12 BC in the reign of Augustus.
This unusual Rome landmark differs from the Egyptian pyramids in that its sides are a lot steeper. Originally built as a tomb, it has long since been ransacked but is still a striking sight.
Head to the Villa Medici for one of the best panoramic views of Rome. The Renaissance palace was originally built for Cardinal da Montepulciano in 1540, then acquired by Ferdinando dei Medici before being purchased by Napoleon for the French Academy.
The cardinal’s painted apartments and the villa’s beautiful gardens are as impressive as the view.
Seville Hidden Gems
One of the most charming cities in Andalucia, it’s worth spending at least a weekend in Seville. For an unbeatable view of the cathedral, head to the rooftop bar in Hotel Doña MarÃa. Terraza Doña MarÃa is a great spot for enjoying an Aperol spritz.
Probably the quirkiest hotel in Seville, Las Casas de la Juderia is actually made up of 27 historic townhouses. Located in the former Jewish quarter, it has a series of interconnecting courtyards.
The rooftop bar and pool are the place to be on a hot day in Seville, though you’ll need to stay at the hotel to enjoy them.
Seville’s most atmospheric bridge, Puente de Isabel II, may not seem like a hidden gem in itself. Linking the city with the cool neighbourhood of Triana, it was the first solid bridge in Seville when completed in 1852.
However, the secret is to get there in the early evening, as it’s one of the best places to take photos in Seville. Afterwards, take a stroll into Triana for a casual meal in one of the many eateries beloved of the inhabitants of Seville.
Final Thoughts on Hidden Gems in Europe
These are just a few of the hidden gems in Europe that we highly recommend visiting. All in all, Europe is filled with hidden gems that you may never have thought of including in your travel bucket list.
From breathtaking mountain and lake views to the awe-inspiring architecture, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or an unforgettable family holiday, these European gems offer the perfect opportunity to explore some of the best that the continent has to offer.
With attractions from glaciers to impossibly ancient castles, they’re sure to give you memories to treasure forever. Now that you know some of the best-hidden gems that Europe has to offer, what are you waiting for? Check out our other travel articles and start exploring!
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An app for hidden gems sounds super useful!
Well the app is for travel tips in general but I’ve contributed hidden gems and there are lots of city guides
Now that sounds amazing for someone that likes to travel off the beaten track. I live in Heidelberg, I have to think about a few hidden gems there.
Linda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
Ooh I love Heidelberg, haven’t been for many years but I’d really like to return
It is a very pretty town.
That’s true, Jalisa, it can be a bit daunting travelling to some new places so this app should certainly improve the experience
Thanks for introducing this app as I had never heard of it. There are so many gems where I live but as I am so used to my environment, it’s difficult to see it with fresh eyes and point out gems.
That’s a really good point, I suppose you could ask visitors what places they haven’t heard of before
I have never heard it app…thank U for sharing
KRASIMIRA STOYNEVA: A FASHION DESIGNER WHO EXCEEDS ALL FORMS OF ART
My pleasure, Francesca and have a sunny Sunday!
How cool!!! I’m moving to Hamburg next month and can’t wait to explore xo
You’ll have an amazing time, Jordan! I’ve written a whole post about Hamburg, there’s lots to do – sailing on the lake was a highlight
Wow I love the idea of this app!! Not sure if will help me right now but definitely when I come home – I love finding places off the beaten track and that secret garden in Regent’s Park looks gorgeous!
I think you’d love that secret garden, we took a friend there for a picnic and she lived in St John’s Wood and had never heard of it!
I’m glad that my IG tempted you to check it out, Lu! The app is so handy, I’ve discovered lots of places to check out in London
Yummy I always go to the best places
xo
www.laurajaneatelier.com
I’m glad you do too, Laura 😉
Technology is a huuuuge help to our lives. Especially to traveling.
This is another awesome place. Thanks for sharing with us, beautiful.
That’s so true, I don’t know what I’d do without my mobile phone now
Searchin’ the Beauty with an App , Ok Suze !!!
A nice summary, Alfredo
What a great app and a great selection of places to visit
I’m very glad that you liked them, Ali
This sounds like the best travel app! Love your Paris tips, that museum is so special. I’ll have to remember this app. Fantastic post!
Http://leftbankgirl.blogspot.com
It’s really convenient for saving travel tips – am sure you’d find lots more about Paris